Report: Julio Jones out eight weeks with foot fracture

Julio Jones completed his NFL Scouting Combine workouts despite a foot fracture, which will require surgery and keep him out eight weeks according to a report. (Photo | Courtesy of the NFL)

Julio Jones already had a reputation for soldiering through injuries.

That reputation could reach legendary status after a report Monday that the former Alabama wide receiver worked out at the NFL Scouting Combine despite a foot fracture.

The injury will require surgery, according to NFL.com. Jones will need a screw inserted in his foot and eight weeks of rehabilitation, the website reported.

That would mean Jones would not be able to participate in Alabama's pro day slated for March 9. Whether that forces Alabama to move its pro day to a later date is unclear. An Alabama spokesman said having two pro days was more likely.

Former Crimson Tide quarterback Greg McElroy already indicated his fractured right (throwing) hand could force him to workout at a later date, possibly March 24.

Messages left with one of Jones' agents were not immediately returned.

Jones created plenty of buzz Sunday with an eye-opening workout that drew wide acclaim for the national media.

Jones spoke about overcoming injuries throughout his collegiate career before his workouts in Indianapolis.

"A lot of guys have injuries," Jones said. "Unfortunately, I probably had a few more than anybody else. But I didn't quit. It didn't hold me back. I didn't miss any practices. I finished the season. I'm healthy now and that's all that matters."

The 6-foot-2, 220 pounder is projected to be a first-round draft pick in April. Some reports had Jones potentially leapfrogging former Georgia star A.J. Green as the top receiver available.

Jones lit up Lucas Oil Stadium with a 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds in his second

attempt. He also registered a broad jump of 11 feet, 3 inches. In passing drills, Jones displayed strong catching skills and explosive speed cementing his place among the top prospects.

Last season, Jones suffered a fractured hand during the first quarter of a 35-21 loss at South Carolina on Oct. 9. Jones returned to practice the day he had a plate and screws inserted into his hand, and did not miss a game.

Jones then set Alabama's single-game record in a 41-10 win at Tennessee on Oct. 23 where had 221 yards receiving and 12 catches.

"It didn't effect my season at all," Jones said before his workouts in Indianapolis. "Had a few bumps and bruises. But guys get hurt every season. The key is how you persevere. I broke my hand one game. Came back the next week and played a little bit. Following week broke a record."